The Social Security Policy of the Republic of North Macedonia: Reform Process, Opportunities and Perspectives

Social policy in the Republic of North Macedonia has been characterized by constant changes that occurred as a result of shifting social and demographic structure, low economic growth and capacity, a permanently high unemployment rate, and increased demand for social protection services. In order to tackle these challenges, numerous legislation revisions have been undertaken, especially in the financing and administering of social services. The aim of this chapter is to give an overview and assessment of the social protection system in the Republic of North Macedonia (in particular its stakeholders) and to offer recommendations for improvement. The study is based on an analysis of secondary data such as research reports, policy documents, public perceptions on social issues, the experiences and perceptions of the beneficiaries of social assistance, and studies conducted by civil associations that work in the field of social work. The study also reviews strategic documents related to social policy such as the National Strategy for the Reduction of Poverty and Social Exclusion in the Republic of Macedonia 2010–2020, the Program for Employment and Social Policy 2020, and the Operational Plan for active employment programs and services. The analysis reveals that social policy in North Macedonia is oriented towards favoring services instead of cash transfers, increased consumer targeting rather than universal access, reduced state service provision at the expense of increased private initiatives, strengthening local government involvement in social protection, conditional cash transfers and reducing the institutional capacity of the state.